Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

A Day of Discovery and Delight

Today was a day of uncovering hidden gems and savoring the unique flavors of Santorini. From exploring the depths of ancient myths to toasting with locally brewed beer and exquisite wine, every moment was a delightful adventure. It’s amazing how much history and culture can be packed into one small island.



Our day began in Pyrgos, where we enjoyed a delightful breakfast at Kantouni. The aroma of freshly brewed Greek coffee filled the air as we settled into a cozy spot under the shade of the eucalyptus trees. I ordered the traditional sfouggato, an egg-and-potato omelet, while my friends opted for omelets with local courgettes. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.



After breakfast, we headed to the Lost Atlantis Experience - Interactive Museum in Megalochori. As a lover of history and mythology, I was excited to explore the legends surrounding the lost city. The museum was conveniently accessible and well-organized. Inside, we were immediately immersed in the world of Atlantis. The interactive exhibits were fascinating, bringing the myth to life with holographic displays and detailed dioramas.




Explore the legendary myth of Atlantis at the Lost Atlantis Experience, a captivating interactive museum in the heart of Megalochori, Santorini.

The highlight was definitely the 9D experience, which simulated the cataclysmic destruction of Atlantis. Experiencing the earthquake and tsunami firsthand was both thrilling and educational. I learned about Plato's philosophical theories and the possible connection between Santorini and the lost city. It was a truly innovative and immersive experience that left me pondering the mysteries of the past. My friend was particularly impressed by the animated hologram of Plato, who explained his inspiration for conceiving the ideal city. Apparently, there's a theory that Santorini is the location of the legendary lost city of Atlantis. Who knew?

The journey through Santorini today was a delightful blend of history, culture, and local flavors, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting island.

Next on our itinerary was the Santorini Brewing Company. After all that history, we needed a refreshing break. The brewery is located outside of Fira, and it was easy to find. As we approached, we were greeted by the sight of a beautifully landscaped bioclimatic garden, designed to offset the brewery's carbon footprint. It was a pleasant surprise and a testament to the company's commitment to sustainability.




Discover the art of Greek brewing at Santorini Brewing Company, where local flavors and craft beer come together in a unique tasting experience.

Inside, we embarked on a tour of the facilities, learning about the brewing process from an expert. The Santorini Brewing Company was founded in 2011 by a multicultural group aiming to bring something new to the Greek beer scene. I found it fascinating to learn about the unique ingredients used in their artisanal beers, such as local honey and citrus fruits. Of course, the best part was the beer tasting. We sampled six exquisite artisanal beers, including the famous Blue Monkey beer, paired with delicious bites. I particularly enjoyed the Yellow Donkey, a refreshing wheat ale with a slightly citrus flavor, while my friend favored the Red Donkey, a malty red ale. It was the perfect way to relax and enjoy the local flavors of Santorini.



Before dinner, we had one more stop: the Santorini Wine Museum. Housed in a natural cave eight meters below ground, the museum offered a unique glimpse into the island's winemaking history. The Koutsogiannopoulos family has been making wine since 1880, and the museum showcases the evolution of winemaking from 1660 to 1970. We wandered through the 300-meter-long labyrinth, admiring the exhibits of old winemaking equipment and learning about the challenges faced by Santorini winemakers. The volcanic soil, while difficult to cultivate, imparts a unique mineral-rich flavor to the wines, making them truly special. It took the Koutsogiannopoulos family twenty-one years of hard work to complete the wine museum, and it shows in the attention to detail and the preservation of winemaking traditions.




Discover the rich heritage of Santorini's winemaking at the Santorini Wine Museum, where tradition meets taste in a captivating setting.

After the museum tour, we participated in a wine tasting, sampling a variety of Santorini wines. I particularly enjoyed the Assyrtiko, a crisp white wine with a distinct mineral flavor. I learned that before 1970, wine was sold loose, and each family produced its own wine. In 1970, the winery acquired its first bottling equipment. The Wine Museum also offers a film about the history of Santorini from 1500 BC to the present day, showing the evolution of life and wine production on the island.



As evening approached, we made our way to Ammoudi Bay for a late lunch at Ammoudi Fish Tavern. The bay is located below the village of Oia, nestled in the imposing red rock. The restaurant was established in 1989, and it specializes in fresh seafood dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. We enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled octopus, calamari, and sea bream, accompanied by local Santorini wine. The view of the bay was breathtaking, and the atmosphere was lively and festive.




Discover fresh seafood delights with breathtaking views at Ammoudi Fish Tavern in Santorini's picturesque Ammoudi Bay.

For dinner, we chose Raki in Megalochori, a traditional Santorinian restaurant known for its authentic Greek food and regional products. The restaurant is located in the picturesque square of Megalochori village, offering a charming and intimate setting. We started with a selection of homemade delicacies, followed by moussaka and souvlaki. The flavors were rich and satisfying, and the service was warm and welcoming. We also tried the traditional Greek raki, an anise-flavored spirit served as an aperitif. Raki Restaurant prides itself on using organic products from regional producers, ensuring the freshness and quality of its dishes.




Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Raki in Megalochori, Santorini – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Before heading back to Serapias Suites in Pyrgos, we stopped by The Bead Shop in Fira. I wanted to find a unique souvenir to remember my time in Santorini. The shop specializes in handmade jewelry crafted with local materials. I found a beautiful necklace made with lava rock beads, a perfect reminder of the island's volcanic history. The Bead Shop offers a diverse selection of jewelry, from simple designs to bold statement pieces, ensuring there is something for everyone. It is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, making it a convenient stop during explorations of Fira.




Discover unique handmade jewelry and souvenirs at The Bead Shop in Fira, Santorini, where every piece reflects the island's beauty and craftsmanship.

Today was International Monuments Day, and it was wonderful to see so many people out exploring the island's cultural heritage. The weather was perfect for walking and sightseeing, and the atmosphere was festive and celebratory.



As I reflect on the day, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the diverse offerings of Santorini. From the depths of ancient myths to the heights of brewing and winemaking, every moment was filled with discovery and delight. Tomorrow, on our final day, we plan to visit Exo Gonia, Santorini Wine Stories, and Santorini Skyline Travel Events Agency. It’s hard to believe our adventure is coming to an end, but I’m determined to make the most of every last moment. Perhaps we'll unwind at Vr Cafe Bar in the evening. Santorini, you've been a dream!



I’m especially glad I remembered to pack my camera; the memories we’re making are definitely worth capturing, and I’m already planning which photos to frame when I get back home to Haarlem. I do wish I hadn’t forgotten my European outlet adapter, though – charging my devices has been a bit of a challenge.